Participants of the Institute for Regional Excellence 2005 cohort wrapped up months of research and presented findings on various topics to COG's Chief Administrative Officers Committee in July. During a special poster session, IRE students presented the results of months-long research on numerous issues affecting the region.

The presentations involved group projects that were part of the 12-month IRE program. Research topics included improving the region's environmental report card, lowering obesity rates by making communities more pedestrian-friendly, and improving retention rates among foster parents.